A Major Makeup Brand Is Leaving Australia

Avon won’t be calling any more, with the US-owned door-to-door cosmetics group announcing it is pulling out of Australia after 55 years.

Avon said today its operations in Australia and New Zealand would be closed by the end of the year as part of new moves by the storied beauty group to return to profitability.

Founded 132 years ago, Avon is one of the world's biggest direct sellers.

Its products are sold through more than six million independent sales representatives, including more than 21,000 in Australia.

However, the group has struggled in recent years, with its chief executive stepping down in August after a string of quarterly losses that triggered pressure from activist investors.

In a statement on its Australian website today, Avon said: “As part of the company’s strategy to return Avon to long-term sustainable profitable growth, the focus will be on markets with the greatest potential for future growth to support its vision of becoming the world’s leading social beauty company.

“In line with this, after a thorough deliberation on our performance, the direct selling conditions in the market, and potential for growth, we have considered all options for the business and it is with much sadness that we are announcing our decision to exit the Australia and New Zealand markets.”